What is considered the most important factor for fetal growth?

The importance of insulin in fetal growth is primarily linked to its role in regulating fetal metabolism and promoting the synthesis of macromolecules essential for growth. Insulin acts as a critical anabolic hormone, driving the uptake of glucose and nutrients into fetal tissues, thereby facilitating cellular growth and development. Adequate levels of insulin are vital for normal growth patterns, as it influences the storage of growth-related substrates and impacts fetal fat deposition and overall size.

While insulin plays a significant role, it operates within a broader context of factors influencing fetal growth, such as maternal nutrition, genetic factors, and oxygen supply. Maternal nutrition provides the essential building blocks and energy needed for growth, genetic factors determine the inherent potential for growth, and oxygen supply is crucial for cellular metabolic processes. However, insulin's direct impact on the regulation of nutrient metabolism and its role as a growth-promoting factor make it especially pivotal in coordinating and supporting fetal growth.